memorial
UK: məˈmɔːriəl | US: məˈmɔːriəl
n. a structure or event to honor a person or event from the past
adj. serving to preserve the memory of someone or something
The word "memorial" traces back to Latin memorialis, derived from memoria (memory). The root memor- means "mindful" or "remembering," and the suffix -ial forms adjectives or nouns indicating relation or purpose. Over time, "memorial" evolved in English to denote objects (e.g., monuments) or acts (e.g., ceremonies) designed to commemorate. The logic reflects a direct link between memory (memor-) and its tangible representation (-ial).
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., honors those who served in the war.
She wore a locket as a memorial to her late grandmother.
The museum hosted a memorial exhibition for the famous artist.
Memorial Day is observed annually to remember fallen soldiers.
His donation was a memorial gesture to his alma mater.